The first-team squad including senior players Martin Corry, Ben Kay and Lewis Moody as well as England internationals Jordan Crane and Tom Croft spent the afternoon in the hospital signing autographs, posing for pictures and handing out gifts.
Tigers captain Corry said: “I think the LRI is a fantastic hospital. Both of my children were born here.
“Christmas is a time to be spending with your children and it’s unfortunate that a lot of these children are going to be in hospital over Christmas.
“If we can come in and spread a little bit of happiness and spread a few choccys as well then that’s very important.”
Fellow world Cup winner Kay said: “I think the players get just as much out of it as the children and their families. It’s inspirational to see how some of them take to being in hospital.
“There was a little girl who had splints on her leg and was busy smiling as she painted Castro’s, Cozza’s and my nails. It shows how resilient the children are.
“It’s nice for them to have someone different coming in, some different faces and some excitement rather than the routine of being in a hospital bed.”
Kay added: “The nurses do a fantastic job. There can’t be anything harder than seeing children in pain and real illness. Speaking to the children, they make a big difference so it’s nice to see them and hopefully put a smile on some of their faces as well.”
Martin Hindle, University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust chairman, said: "The Tigers are a phenomenal bunch of sportsmen and it's clear that they are also dedicated to bringing some cheer to the children of the LRI.
"We thank them for coming alng and seeing us and we wish them luck in their current domestic and European campaigns."
